How to deal with a cycling accident in Ireland

5 minute read

Cyclists are some of the most at-risk road users in Ireland, and being involved in a cycling accident can be a distressing ordeal. When a larger vehicle like a car or bus is involved, the situation can become even more daunting and dangerous for the cyclist.

Having a plan can significantly alleviate the stresses of being involved in a cycling accident.

It is important for cyclists to have a basic understanding of what they should do in the days, weeks and months following an accident.

This blog post outlines some key points for cyclists to consider.

The immediate aftermath of a cycling accident in Ireland

Immediately after the bicycle accident, your priority should be your safety and well-being. If you’re able, assess your surroundings and move to a safe area.

Call the Garda and/or ambulance services if necessary.

Having witnesses can be invaluable, as their statements may provide essential evidence if you choose to pursue a claim. You may wish to ask onlookers for their contact details.

If the cycling accident did lead to injuries

If you are injured, the Garda will attend the scene and document the accident, including the details of everyone involved. This information may prove useful should you decide to make a claim later on. However, your immediate focus should be on getting medical care, either at the scene or by going to hospital.

It’s also advisable to consult your GP, as some symptoms may not appear until days after the accident.

You may be entitled to compensation following a cycling accident

If you were injured and the accident was caused by another road user, you could be entitled to compensation. It is advisable to seek independent legal advice without delay. A solicitor can safeguard your rights and assist you through the claims process.

Beware of third-party capture

Refrain from interacting with representatives of other parties involved in the accident. It is not unusual for insurance companies to contact you with compensation offers before you have had the opportunity to obtain independent legal advice. This practice, known as third-party capture, should be approached with caution.

Visit Beware of Third-Party Capture to learn more.

Choosing a cycling accident claims solicitor in Ireland

Recovering from injuries after a traumatic incident is challenging enough without the added pressure of finding a trustworthy solicitor. Even at full health, it can be stressful to conduct due diligence of choosing the right representation.

To reduce this stress, it is sensible to plan ahead and have a solicitor in mind whom you feel confident in, even if you have not had an accident. Hopefully, you will never need to contact them, but if you do, the due diligence is already done.

We specialise in handling cycling accident claims and we have earned the trust of a great number of local road users.

Save our number in your phone contacts today, and if the worst happens, we will be ready to assist you.

You can reach us on: +353 404 67412

The Augustus Cullen Law cycling accident claims process

If it looks like you have a viable claim and you give us your instruction, we will begin your claim by sending a letter of claim to the other road user’s insurance provider. We will also request your medical records and arrange for a further examination by a medical professional.

This will allow us to assess the extent of your injuries and start estimating the compensation you may be entitled to.

Cycling accident compensation might cover things like:

Pain, suffering and loss of quality of life
The cost of repairing or replacing your bicycle
Lost income if you are unable to work
The value of damaged personal items, such as your helmet
Medical expenses, including treatment and rehabilitation costs

In most cases where liability is accepted, your claim will be resolved without the need to go to court. We will negotiate to secure the highest level of fair compensation for you. However, if the other party or their insurer disputes the case, we will leverage our expertise and the evidence to seek compensation through the courts.

If your claim is successful, you will receive compensation shortly thereafter.

Moving on with your life after a cycling accident

The final, and arguably the most important, step is putting the accident behind you and moving on.

Pursuing compensation after a bicycle accident is about securing your right to justice. Once your case is resolved, you can start to put the experience behind you and move forward with your life.

It should be remembered that being involved in an accident is a distressing experience. If you’re finding it difficult to cope in the aftermath, it’s important to discuss this with your GP.

We are expert cycling accident claims solicitors with offices in Dublin, Wicklow & Wexford

If you had an accident in the past two years and need advice, we can help. Visit Personal Injury Claims to learn more or Contact Us for an initial consultation with a solicitor.

In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement.